Recap: Holly Springs Quarterly Business Meeting

Fast-growing community at critical juncture where strategic planning, infrastructure improvements, and economic diversification must align to support its growth.

Holly Springs, NC, Mar. 9, 2025 — During the Quarterly Business Meeting on March 4, 2025, town officials outlined key initiatives, challenges, and opportunities shaping the town’s future. Holly Springs is on a sustained growth trajectory, driven by residential expansion and commercial investment. As one of the fastest-growing communities in the region, the town is at a critical juncture where strategic planning, infrastructure improvements, and economic diversification must align.

The vision for Holly Springs is clear: balance residential and commercial growth, invest in public infrastructure, and ensure that development aligns with the town’s long-term strategic plan. However, with expansion come challenges—ranging from zoning approval delays to increasing infrastructure demands—all of which require careful policy updates and innovative solutions.

Addressing Challenges and Embracing Opportunities in Future Development

As Holly Springs grows, town leaders are focused on managing development pressures while maintaining residents' quality of life. Among the most pressing concerns is infrastructure readiness. New residential and commercial projects place greater demands on roads, utilities, and public services, necessitating proactive planning to avoid congestion, service disruptions, or overcrowding.

Another key issue is zoning approval efficiency. Developers have raised concerns about the length of time it takes to navigate the zoning and permitting process, which can delay projects and drive up costs. To address this, the town is exploring streamlining approvals, possibly by delegating minor projects to staff for expedited processing rather than requiring full council reviews.

Affordability is also a growing concern. Rising home prices and construction costs have made it difficult for many middle-income families to find affordable housing in Holly Springs. While the town is not currently implementing an official affordable housing policy, discussions are ongoing about ways to encourage mixed-income developments and diverse housing types to ensure accessibility.

Yet, with these challenges come opportunities. Holly Springs has the chance to lead in smart growth strategies, focusing on mixed-use developments that integrate residential, retail, and office spaces in walkable communities. Additionally, public-private partnerships can provide funding and expertise to advance infrastructure projects that benefit both businesses and residents.

The Future of Residential Development in Holly Springs

Holly Springs is poised for significant residential growth, with an estimated 23–40% population increase over the next five to eight years. Currently, over 4,200 residential units have already been approved, with another 1,500 under review and 1,000 in conceptual planning. This level of expansion will shape the town’s character, bringing both opportunities and responsibilities.

A variety of housing types are emerging to accommodate this growth. Single-family subdivisions continue to dominate, but there is a noticeable shift toward townhomes and multi-family units that offer a mix of affordability and urban convenience. Additionally, senior living communities are being considered to meet the needs of Holly Springs’ aging population.

Among the notable projects shaping the residential landscape is 4016 Berman Edge Road, which is being rezoned for suburban residential housing. Meanwhile, the Overlook on Main development is set to introduce 237 apartment units above a retail space, representing the town’s growing interest in mixed-use urban planning.

One major concern related to this residential expansion is the impact on schools, traffic, and emergency services. While the town has approved development for the next decade, leaders are carefully monitoring how this growth aligns with existing infrastructure capacity and are investigating transportation improvements and emergency service expansions to ensure sustainability.

Commercial and Industrial Expansion: A Growing Business Hub

Beyond residential growth, Holly Springs is actively investing in commercial and industrial expansion to create a well-balanced economy. More than 340,000 square feet of new commercial space is currently in the application process, with an additional 150,000 square feet in early planning stages. These projects aim to reduce dependence on Raleigh and other regional economic centers, ensuring residents have employment opportunities and retail options within their community.

One of the most high-profile commercial developments is Overlook on Main, a mixed-use project combining retail and residential spaces. This type of development aligns with the town’s walkability and smart-growth initiatives, ensuring that new businesses are integrated within residential areas to reduce commuting burdens.

On the industrial and corporate front, Holly Springs is positioning itself as a hub for tech, biotech, and logistics operations. Industrial parks are expanding, with new investments to attract manufacturing and supply chain companies. These projects boost economic activity and create high-paying jobs that will keep residents working closer to home.

Meanwhile, public investment in infrastructure is keeping pace with commercial growth. The town actively funds road expansions, public transit improvements, and green space developments to ensure a modern infrastructure network supporting new businesses. Projects like the Fire Station #3 expansion and the Eagles Landing Park initiative highlight Holly Springs’ commitment to balancing growth with community well-being.

A Long-Term Vision for Smart Growth and Sustainability

As Holly Springs moves forward, town leaders emphasize a long-term strategic vision that balances growth with sustainability. Maintaining a 70/30 ratio of residential to commercial development remains a guiding principle, ensuring that economic expansion keeps pace with population increases.

A key priority is transportation and infrastructure investment. Roads must be expanded, pedestrian-friendly pathways prioritized, and transit options explored to accommodate a growing population. Traffic congestion and connectivity issues are being addressed through roadway improvements and potential public transit initiatives, ensuring residents can move efficiently throughout the town.

Economic diversification is also crucial. While Holly Springs is experiencing a residential boom, the town is taking active steps to attract corporate headquarters, industrial hubs, and technology firms. This focus will create a sustainable tax base to fund future infrastructure projects and public services.

Additionally, environmental sustainability is becoming a greater focus. Future developments will be encouraged to incorporate eco-friendly construction methods, energy-efficient buildings, and community green spaces. As the town grows, leaders are committed to maintaining Holly Springs’ reputation as a desirable, livable community with access to nature and outdoor amenities.

Conclusion: A Future Built on Thoughtful Planning and Strong Community Engagement

The path forward for Holly Springs is clear: thoughtful planning, strategic zoning updates, and strong public-private partnerships will define the town’s next growth phase. Proactive solutions must be found to meet challenges such as infrastructure readiness, zoning delays, and affordability, while new opportunities in mixed-use development, commercial expansion, and industrial investment must be seized.

With more than 5,000 residential units in development, hundreds of thousands of square feet of commercial space planned, and infrastructure investments on the way, Holly Springs is well-positioned for long-term success. By focusing on sustainability, economic diversity, and smart growth, the town ensures that new development enhances—not overwhelms—the community.

Community engagement remains critical as town leaders continue refining policies and making investments. Holly Springs's future depends on residents, business owners, and developers working together to build a thriving, connected, and well-planned town. With a strong vision, careful planning, and a commitment to progress, Holly Springs is poised for a future of opportunity and innovation.

Share your thoughts on Holly Springs’ growth strategies with the Town Council:

Mayor
Sean Mayefskie, sean.mayefskie@hollyspringsnc.gov

Mayor Pro Tem
Daniel H. Berry, daniel.berry@hollyspringsnc.gov

Council Member
Chris Deshazor, chris.deshazor@hollyspringsnc.gov

Council Member
Annie Drees, annie.drees@hollyspringsnc.gov

Council Member
Timothy Forrest, timothy.forrest@hollyspringsnc.gov

Council Member
Danielle Hewetson, danielle.hewetson@hollyspringsnc.gov